Bryce Canyon's Humanoid Hoodoos Make For Visually Stunning Hikes

Fall is a grand time to visit Bryce. In fact, it may well be the most scenic season to visit, with leaves on some trees and brush changing colors, contrasted by the evergreen pine trees and multicolored rocks.

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Along the eastern rim of Utah's Paunsaugunt Plateau lies Bryce Canyon National Park, a visual feast for the eyes. Standing along the park's rim, visitors are treated to a multi colored landscape of natural spires, pinnacles and pillars called hoodoos.

Depending on how much time you have in Bryce and your physical abilities, there are plenty of hiking opportunities. For an easy hike, the Rim Trail is tops. Although the Rim Trail extends about 11 miles, choosing to do one or more of its short segments is best. The half-mile section that runs between Sunset and Sunrise points is not only fairly level and paved but also has some of the best views into the escarpment.

For those seeking to get down into the hoodoos, the 1.3-mile Navajo Loop Trail is a fine one and is moderately strenuous. It was closed for a while due to rockfalls and mud slides but has reopened. The hike begins at Sunset Point and travels down into a nice slot canyon below the rim.

A more strenuous hike, and therefore one that offers quite a bit of solitude, is the Fairyland Loop Trail. It travels about eight miles and features the stunning formations called China Wall and Tower Bridge.

Seeing the park's hoodoos at night under the glow of a full moon is a sight you won't soon forget. On Sept. 11-13 or Oct. 11-13, you can take part in the guided Full Moon Hike. It takes 1½ to 2½ hours. These fill up fast. If you are interested, be sure to register at the visitor center first thing in the morning on the day of the hike.